An apparatus, method and computer program for controlling an earphone device is disclosed. The apparatus may comprise means for detecting a condition corresponding to an earphone device becoming disengaged from a user's ear and for operating said earphone device in an adjustment mode based on detecting the condition, wherein, in the adjustment mode, an operation associated with a touch sensor on said earphone device is changed.
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2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, in the adjustment mode, the apparatus is configured to disable operation of the touch sensor.
This invention relates to an apparatus with a touch sensor and an adjustment mode. The apparatus includes a touch sensor for detecting user input and a control system that operates in at least two modes: a normal mode and an adjustment mode. In the normal mode, the touch sensor is active and detects user interactions, such as touches or gestures, to control the apparatus. In the adjustment mode, the apparatus is configured to disable the touch sensor, preventing it from detecting user input. This allows for adjustments or calibrations to be performed without interference from unintended touch inputs. The apparatus may include additional components, such as a display or mechanical actuators, which remain functional during the adjustment mode. The invention addresses the problem of accidental or unintended touch inputs during calibration or maintenance, ensuring accurate adjustments by temporarily disabling the touch sensor. The apparatus may be used in devices where precise adjustments are required, such as industrial equipment, medical devices, or consumer electronics.
3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, in the adjustment mode, the apparatus is further configured to reduce a volume of, or disable output of, an audio signal output from said earphone device.
This invention relates to an apparatus for adjusting audio output in an earphone device, addressing the problem of unwanted audio interference or distractions during certain operations. The apparatus includes a mode selector to switch between a normal mode and an adjustment mode. In the adjustment mode, the apparatus is configured to reduce the volume of or disable the output of an audio signal from the earphone device. This allows users to temporarily mute or lower audio output for tasks such as adjusting settings, troubleshooting, or interacting with the device without being disrupted by sound. The apparatus may also include a sensor to detect user input or environmental conditions to trigger the adjustment mode automatically. The invention ensures seamless transitions between modes while maintaining audio quality in normal operation. The apparatus may be integrated into the earphone device or a connected system, providing flexibility in implementation. The solution enhances user experience by preventing audio interference during critical adjustments or interactions.
4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein, in the adjustment mode, the apparatus is further configured to disable the output of the audio signal and to move the output of the audio signal to a second earphone device having a paired relationship with said earphone device.
This invention relates to audio output management in earphone devices, specifically addressing the need to dynamically adjust audio routing between paired earphones. The apparatus includes an earphone device capable of operating in an adjustment mode, where it disables the output of the audio signal from the primary earphone and redirects it to a second earphone device that is paired with the primary one. This functionality ensures seamless audio continuity when adjustments are needed, such as during earphone repositioning or when switching between devices. The apparatus may also include features like a microphone for capturing audio input, a processor for processing audio signals, and a wireless communication module for establishing a connection with the paired earphone. The adjustment mode can be triggered manually or automatically based on detected conditions, such as a change in the user's position or a request from the paired device. The invention improves user experience by maintaining uninterrupted audio playback while allowing flexible adjustments between paired earphones.
5. The apparatus of claim 4, wherein, in the adjustment mode, the apparatus is configured to determine a similarity between a first audio signal output from said earphone device and a second audio signal being output from the second earphone device, and to move the output of the first audio signal to the second earphone device only if the similarity is below a predetermined threshold value.
This invention relates to audio signal processing in earphone devices, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining balanced audio output between two earphones when one earphone is obstructed or malfunctioning. The apparatus includes a first earphone device and a second earphone device, each capable of outputting audio signals. The apparatus operates in an adjustment mode where it evaluates the audio quality of each earphone. To do this, the apparatus compares a first audio signal from the first earphone device with a second audio signal from the second earphone device. The comparison involves calculating a similarity metric between the two signals. If the similarity falls below a predetermined threshold, indicating a significant difference in audio output, the apparatus transfers the first audio signal to the second earphone device. This ensures that audio continues to be delivered through the functioning earphone when the first earphone is obstructed or defective. The apparatus may also include a microphone for capturing ambient noise and a processor for adjusting the audio signals based on the captured noise. The system dynamically adapts to environmental conditions to maintain optimal audio performance.
6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein, in the adjustment mode, the apparatus is further configured to disable operation of a microphone provided on said earphone device.
This invention relates to an apparatus for adjusting settings on an earphone device, particularly focusing on user privacy and functionality during adjustment operations. The apparatus is designed to address the problem of unintended audio capture during configuration, ensuring that sensitive or ambient sounds are not recorded when the device is in an adjustment mode. The apparatus includes an earphone device with a microphone and is configured to enter an adjustment mode where the microphone is automatically disabled. This prevents accidental recording or transmission of audio while the user modifies settings, such as volume, equalization, or connectivity options. The apparatus may also include a user interface, such as buttons or a touch-sensitive surface, to facilitate these adjustments. The microphone remains inactive until the adjustment mode is exited, ensuring privacy and preventing unintended audio data collection. This feature is particularly useful in environments where confidentiality is critical, such as meetings or personal use scenarios. The apparatus may further include additional components, such as a processor and memory, to manage the adjustment mode and microphone functionality. The invention enhances user control over audio privacy while maintaining ease of use during device configuration.
7. The apparatus of claim 6, wherein the apparatus is further configured to enable operation of a microphone provided on a second earphone device having a paired relationship with said earphone device.
This invention relates to audio communication systems, specifically improving microphone functionality in paired earphone devices. The problem addressed is the inability of a second earphone device in a paired set to activate its microphone, limiting hands-free communication options. The apparatus includes a first earphone device with a microphone and a second earphone device that can be paired with the first. The apparatus is configured to enable the microphone on the second earphone device when the devices are paired, allowing both earphones to function as input sources. This enables users to switch between microphones or use both simultaneously, enhancing flexibility in audio communication. The system may include wireless communication protocols to synchronize microphone activation between the paired devices. The apparatus may also include processing components to manage audio signals from both microphones, ensuring clear and coordinated input. This solution improves usability for hands-free communication, particularly in scenarios where a single microphone is insufficient or when users need to alternate between devices. The invention focuses on seamless integration of microphone functionality across paired earphone devices to provide a more versatile audio experience.
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is further configured to detect said earphone device becoming re-engaged with the ear of the user's wherein the apparatus is configured to cancel the adjustment mode based on the detected re-engaged condition.
This invention relates to an apparatus for managing earphone device engagement with a user's ear, particularly for adjusting audio output when the earphone is disengaged and restoring normal operation upon re-engagement. The apparatus detects when an earphone device is removed from a user's ear, triggering an adjustment mode that modifies audio output, such as reducing volume or pausing playback, to prevent discomfort or audio leakage. The apparatus also monitors for the earphone being re-inserted into the user's ear. Upon detecting re-engagement, the apparatus automatically cancels the adjustment mode, restoring the original audio settings or resuming playback. This ensures seamless user experience by dynamically adapting to earphone engagement states without manual intervention. The system may include sensors or signal analysis to determine engagement status, and logic to process these inputs and control audio adjustments accordingly. The invention addresses the problem of maintaining audio quality and user comfort when earphones are temporarily removed, while ensuring quick restoration of normal operation when re-engaged.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, further configured to cause to issue a notification via a user interface, the notification being associated with operating said earphone device in the adjustment mode.
This invention relates to an apparatus for adjusting the operation of an earphone device, particularly in an adjustment mode. The apparatus is designed to address the challenge of optimizing earphone performance based on user preferences or environmental conditions. The apparatus includes a processor and a memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the earphone device to enter an adjustment mode. In this mode, the apparatus can modify one or more operational parameters of the earphone device, such as audio settings, noise cancellation levels, or power management configurations. The apparatus is further configured to issue a notification via a user interface to inform the user that the earphone device is operating in the adjustment mode. This notification ensures the user is aware of the ongoing adjustments and can provide feedback or make further modifications as needed. The apparatus may also include additional components, such as sensors or communication modules, to gather data for optimizing the earphone device's performance. The overall goal is to enhance the user experience by dynamically adapting the earphone device's functionality based on real-time conditions or user inputs.
13. The apparatus of claim 12, further configured to cause to determine that the earphone device is beyond a predetermined distance from the ear of the user and, responsive thereto, the apparatus is configured to cause output of an alert sound to another, second earphone device having a paired relationship with said earphone device.
This invention relates to earphone devices and systems for managing audio output when an earphone is not properly positioned. The problem addressed is ensuring users remain aware of important audio cues, such as alerts or notifications, even if one earphone is removed or displaced from the ear. The solution involves an apparatus that detects when an earphone device is beyond a predetermined distance from the user's ear. Upon detecting this condition, the apparatus triggers an alert sound to be output through a second, paired earphone device. This ensures continuity of audio alerts, improving user awareness and safety. The system may include sensors or proximity detectors to monitor the earphone's position relative to the ear. The apparatus may also include communication modules to relay signals between the earphones, enabling coordinated audio output. The invention enhances usability by preventing missed notifications due to earphone displacement, particularly in scenarios where situational awareness is critical, such as during exercise or commuting. The apparatus may be integrated into the earphone hardware or a connected device, such as a smartphone or audio processor. The solution is applicable to wireless earphones, where maintaining a paired connection between devices is essential for seamless audio management.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein, in the adjustment mode, the operation of the touch sensor is disabled.
A system and method for adjusting settings of a touch sensor in an electronic device. The touch sensor is used to detect user input, such as gestures or touches, to control device functions. A problem arises when adjusting the touch sensor's sensitivity or calibration, as unintended inputs may occur during the adjustment process, leading to errors or incorrect settings. The invention provides a solution by introducing an adjustment mode that temporarily disables the touch sensor's operation while adjustments are made. This prevents accidental inputs from interfering with the calibration or sensitivity settings. The adjustment mode is activated through a dedicated hardware button or a specific sequence of inputs, ensuring intentional activation. Once adjustments are complete, the touch sensor is re-enabled, restoring normal operation. This method ensures accurate and reliable touch sensor calibration without unintended disruptions. The system may also include feedback mechanisms, such as visual or auditory signals, to confirm mode activation and completion of adjustments. The invention is applicable to devices like smartphones, tablets, and other touch-sensitive interfaces where precise touch sensor calibration is required.
16. The method of claim 14, wherein, in the adjustment mode, a volume of an audio signal output from said earphone device is reduced or disabled.
This invention relates to audio systems, specifically methods for managing audio output in earphone devices to address issues of unintended audio exposure or interference. The method involves an adjustment mode that modifies the audio signal output from the earphone device, either by reducing the volume or disabling it entirely. This adjustment is triggered by detecting a specific condition, such as proximity to another device or user input, ensuring controlled audio output in various scenarios. The system includes an earphone device with audio output capabilities and a control mechanism to activate the adjustment mode, which may involve signal processing to attenuate or mute the audio. The method ensures that audio output is managed dynamically, preventing unintended audio leakage or interference while maintaining user control over the earphone's functionality. The invention is particularly useful in environments where audio privacy or interference avoidance is critical, such as in professional settings or shared spaces.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein, in the adjustment mode, the output of the audio signal is disabled and the output of the audio signal is moved to a second earphone device having a paired relationship with said earphone device.
This invention relates to audio signal management in earphone devices, specifically addressing the need to dynamically adjust audio output between paired earphones. The problem solved is ensuring seamless audio redirection when one earphone is in an adjustment mode, such as during calibration or troubleshooting, without interrupting the user experience. The method involves disabling the audio output of the primary earphone when it enters an adjustment mode and automatically transferring the audio signal to a second earphone that is paired with the first. This ensures continuous audio playback while the primary earphone undergoes adjustments. The paired relationship between the earphones allows for synchronized operation, where the second earphone temporarily assumes full audio output responsibilities until the primary earphone exits the adjustment mode. The invention enhances user convenience by maintaining uninterrupted audio playback during maintenance or calibration processes, leveraging the paired connection to dynamically reroute the audio signal. This approach is particularly useful in wireless earphone systems where seamless transitions between devices are critical for user satisfaction.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein, in the adjustment mode, a similarity between a first audio signal being the output from said earphone device and a second audio signal being the output from the second earphone device is determined, and the first audio signal is moved to the second earphone device only if the similarity is below a predetermined threshold value.
This invention relates to audio signal processing in earphone devices, specifically addressing the challenge of maintaining consistent audio output between multiple earphones. The system includes at least two earphone devices, each capable of generating an audio signal, and operates in an adjustment mode to ensure synchronized audio playback. In this mode, the system compares the similarity between a first audio signal from one earphone and a second audio signal from another earphone. If the similarity falls below a predetermined threshold, indicating a mismatch or misalignment, the first audio signal is transferred to the second earphone device to correct the discrepancy. This ensures that both earphones produce the same audio output, improving user experience by preventing phase or amplitude differences. The method may involve real-time monitoring and adjustment to maintain synchronization, particularly useful in wireless or multi-device audio systems where signal integrity can vary. The invention enhances audio fidelity and consistency in multi-earphone configurations.
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January 31, 2022
April 2, 2024
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